Discussion of the effectiveness of distance education presents a framework for understanding three of the primary variables that comprise the design and delivery of distance education: teaching method, media attributes, and delivery mode; and emphasizes the importance of discriminating between them when evaluating instruction. Considers online…

The article describes the new development in technology called "hypermedia." Discussed are the historical roots of hypermedia as well as a theoretical rationale for why hypermedia can be a powerful tool for making knowledge meaningful. Examples of prototype hypermedia environments for use with special-needs learners are presented. (Author/DB)

Increased emphasis on both individualized instruction and distance education along with the cost-effectiveness factor will encourage further educational development with the optical disc technologies. Acceptance of interactive videodisc instructional materials will be a slow process in the public school setting but will eventually have a great…

Reviews the development process of the TouchSource authoring system, which has been designed for use in developing touchscreen information directories using interactive videodisc. Topics discussed include authoring languages; the compatibility of interactive videodisc systems; hardware considerations; menu creation and design; database functions;…

Discusses the use of interactive video in distance education and emphasizes the need for qualified instructors who can be effective with new teaching strategies. Topics discussed include telecommunications equipment; communication skills needed for working with video technology; maintaining learners' attention; and guidelines for visual graphics…

Reports findings of a small-scale study on middle school students' use of interactive videodisc. Types of learning activities in which the ability-grouped pupils engaged are identified, the proportion of time spent on each activity is shown, and the dynamics of group process are discussed. (eight references) (Author/LRW)

Describes a series of evaluation criteria for self-instructional materials for adult learners that focuses on computer-assisted instruction and interactive video instruction. Five categories are included: (1) content; (2) instructional strategies; (3) instructional presentation; (4) documentation; and (5) technical aspects. (10 references) (LRW)

This paper describes a series of computer-based, interactive videodisc training programs being developed for training personnel to work with children having emotional and behavioral disorders. The first program, "Perspectives on Emotional and Behavioral Disorders," is designed for preservice and inservice use by special and general educators.…

Videoconferencing helps people conduct business more efficiently. It allows people from separate sites to meet electronically, allowing them to talk among themselves as they watch each other on video displays. Describes some systems being used by colleges and businesses, early results, user comments, implications, and potential of the technology.…

Defines instructional roles of dynamic visual displays (DVDs), including animation and interactive video, and provides guidelines for using them in media-based instruction. Topics addressed include theoretical bases; examples of strategic applications of DVDs; six instructional conditions for using DVDs; and considerations for the design and…

Discusses training needs for teachers new to distance learning technology and describes experiences at Georgia College with interactive video, including distance learning equipment and policies; training and preparation for faculty; instructional presentation styles; personalization strategies; and equipment usage and technology problems. (LRW)

The Florida Teletraining Project tested the feasibility of using community colleges for training military personnel in the Reserve Components. Five interactive video courses were produced, delivered, and evaluated. The project demonstrated the potential of two-way video teletraining for military personnel. (AEF)

Strips away advertising hyperbole to explain multimedia CD-ROM technology and its place in today's classrooms. Only the newest computers are adequate for multimedia CD-ROM; only 10% of all computers in schools have CD-ROM drives attached. CD-ROM drives' performance varies, installation hassles abound, and the "edutainment" market directs…

Factors driving the shift from analog to digital video storage and retrieval are discussed, including improved compression techniques, reduced hardware costs, and increased network demands. Characteristics of digital video and various compression procedures are described. Applications and guidelines for use of digital video in higher education…

Discussion of transactions in computer-based instruction for ill-structured and visual domains focuses on two transactions developed for meteorology training that provide the capability to interact with video and graphic images at a very detailed level. Potential applications for the transactions are suggested, and early evaluation reports are…